What is stress really doing to your system?

Not all stress is bad, stressors on the body help us to respond appropriatly.

Stress can show up in many forms, including - 

• Physical: heavy lifting or trauma, repetitive movements or positions (Posture, poor desk ergonomics, sedentary lifestyle)
• Chemical: Poor diet, caffeine, alcohol, enviromental toxins
• Emotional: Anxiety, pressure, conflict, loss, frustration

These all trigger an area of the brain, called the hypothalamus, which responds to signals of stress, and activates the sympathetic nervous system. The stress response also known as the “flight or flight” response. It is designed to get you out of a sticky situation, in other words, you either stay and fight or run away from the danger, flight.

Whatever the stressor is, physical, emotional or chemical, they all result in activating the stress response. When your stress response is activated, hormones are released, causing blood to be diverted away from non-core organs, such as your gut, to your muscles. Your blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate all increase.

Ideally, once the stressor has diminished, your body moves into its parasympathetic response (rest & digest).

However, chronic stress can cause a wide range of issues, including,

• Fatigue
• Headache
• Decreased appetite
• Craving for carbohydrates & fats
• Digestive issues
• Insomnia
• Poor immunity
• Increase in inflammation

How can you help your stress response?

• Chiropractic adjustment
• Massage
• Getting outdoors
• Exercise
• Meditation 
• Food change
• Laughter

Whats your favourite way to de-stress?